The National Aboriginal Health Organization (NAHO) is looking for nominations for its National Aboriginal Role Model Program. Each year, the program celebrates the achievements, leadership and innovation of 12 First Nations, Inuit and Métis role models between the ages of 13 to 30 and inspires them to strive to reach future goals. Throughout the year, role models have the opportunity to visit First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities and share their stories with other youth. Selection is based on nominations from other Aboriginal youth aged 13 to 30. Nominations must be submitted by March 19, 2010. For more information, visit: www.naho.ca/rolemodel/english/nomination_generalInfo.php.

CPS Status Report shows little progress on Jordan’s Principle

The Canadian Paediatric Society’s biannual Status Report, Are We Doing Enough?, was released December 2009. The report rates provinces, territories and the federal government on public policy issues affecting children and youth such as injury prevention, health promotion, children’s rights, and poverty. Unfortunately, when it comes to Jordan’s Principle, progress has been minimal since the 2007 report. More than half the provinces/territories are still rated as “poor”, and none has developed or is following an implementation plan. For more information: www.cps.ca/English/Advocacy/StatusReport.htm.

Burn Camp for Kids in Ontario invites new campers

Camp BUCKO, or the BUrn Camp for Kids in Ontario, is looking for campers to attend its camp during the 2010 season–and it would like to make a special invitation to young Ontario Aboriginal burn survivors. Camp BUCKO offers a variety of camping experiences, including a one-week program, a camp exchange program, and Family Camp weekends. Based on generous donations to the Camp BUCKO foundation, campers are typically able to attend at no cost. We encourage you to notify your contacts about this opportunity, particularly those that know children and youth who may qualify to attend. For more information, visit www.campbucko.ca or contact
1-877-272-8256.

Aboriginal Health Forum slated for Toronto in May

The Aboriginal Health Forum–being held on May 17-18 in Toronto–will work toward identifying challenges, solutions and best practices in Aboriginal health care. The conference will discuss a wide range of health care topics from a multi-disciplinary and prevention-oriented approach. Topics will range from human resources challenges, to technological solutions, to recognizing and addressing intergenerational cycles of poverty and illness. Visit the conference website or contact 1-888-777-1707 for more information.

Canadian Human Rights Tribunal on child welfare threatened

The federal government is trying to derail the tribunal on First Nations child welfare funding based on a legal technicality, reports the First Nations Child and Family Caring Society of Canada. Under the Canadian Human Rights Act, discrimination can be alleged on the basis of a good, accommodation or a service. The federal government argues funding of child welfare on reserves is not a service, and so it should not be held accountable for discrimination. This same strategy was attempted unsuccessfully in federal court, and the federal government has applied to have the case dismissed. Says Caring Society executive director Cindy Blackstock, “We strongly believe Canada's position on this case is out of step with its obligations in ensuring the safety and well-being of children and youth come before considerations about jurisdiction. This case has broad implications for the equality rights of First Nations peoples and all Canadians.” To ask the federal government to withdraw its motion to dismiss the case, and to allow it to be decided on its own merits, e-mail Prime Minister Harper. Visit the “I am a witness” campaign website for information on the tribunal, including updated resources.

Immunization information for Aboriginal Peoples

Get Immunized Information is a national, bilingual web-based clearinghouse of information on immunization and Aboriginal Peoples. The Get Immunized Information website hosts a collection of culturally relevant, timely and credible information resources on immunization and First Nations and Inuit. The goal of the website is to contribute to the control and elimination of vaccine-preventable diseases by increasing awareness of the benefits and risks of immunization for all ages. The website will achieve this goal with the support of physicians, nurses, community health representatives and parents in First Nations and Inuit communities. Visit www.getimmunized.ca/ for more information.

Action Plan addresses mental health issues of Inuit communities

In December 2009, Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami (ITK) launched the Alianait Inuit Action Plan. The plan takes a holistic approach to mental health, and outlines goals and solutions that will allow Inuit communities and organizations to work together in addressing mental health challenges. Visit www.itk.ca/publications for more information or to download a copy of the action plan.

Keewaytinook Okimakanak celebrating First Nations careers

Last fall, Keewaytinook Okimakanak's K-Net Services, as the Regional Management Office for INAC's First Nations SchoolNet, began hosting a new e-learning initiative called "Celebrating First Nation Careers." It profiles First Nations individuals living in their home communities while following their chosen career path. It can be used as a teaching tool that allows young people to discover the many educational and career opportunities available to them. Visit http://ecareers.knet.ca to see the interviews, or contact Kirsty Baxter-Greene for more information.

Nunavut Sivuniksavut Founder to Receive Order of Canada

Nunavut Sivuniksavut founder Murray Angus is one of 25 new members being appointed to the Order of Canada. Nunavut Sivuniksavut is a college program providing training for Nunavut Inuit youth interested pursuing training and career opportunities offered by the Nunavut Land Claims Agreement and the Government of Nunavut. Mr. Angus is being recognized for “his varied contributions to building awareness and respect for Canada’s Native people and their traditions, and for the role he has played in empowering Inuit youth as founder of Nunavut Sivuniksavut.” For more information: www.gg.ca/document.aspx?id=13469.